Ronald McDonald House Charities Approves a $52,440 Music Grant for Norbel School
June 8, 2004
Elkridge - On March 30, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Baltimore, Incorporated, approved a $52,440 music grant for Norbel School, an independent school for Kindergarten through high school age students with learning differences. The grant will allow the school to use a multisensory program that includes a state of the art individualized music curriculum for students in grades 4 to 12. The program is designed to teach and/or enhance musical concepts, such as reading music and operating the functions of the keyboard. The music program will also provide voice training, instruction on drums, bass, guitar, piano, synthesizer and music recording for individual levels and learning styles. The grant will allow each student to receive group and individual instruction through headphones and individual learning labs. In addition, the curriculum is designed to stimulate creativity and interest in music and enhance computer skills and finger dexterity.

“Research demonstrates that children with learning challenges dramatically benefit from music programs and particularly those programs that are integrated within the academic curriculum,” stated Dr. Eric M. Isselhardt, Norbel School’s Headmaster. “Successful experiences with music lead to feelings of accomplishment and gratification, which contribute to self-respect and confidence, says Isselhardt.”

“We are so honored that Ronald McDonald House Charities has recognized the importance of offering this unique music program to our students” says Terry Kemp, Norbel School’s Music Director. “I have seen time and time again the importance of music in a child’s life and how satisfied children feel when they are involved music. Additionally, music can increase the students feeling of accomplishment.”

This innovative program will be used year round and will serve more than 100 students annually, allowing them to bring their own unique interest and abilities to the music-learning environment.

Ronald McDonald House Charities Approves a $52,440 Music Grant